Millions of Americans and people from all over the world are itching to start traveling again. As the summer rolls around and, for the first time in over a year, much of the country and the world has begun to resume “normal” life, people are planning trips once again. The reality of our post-pandemic world; however, is that nothing is really normal, and we may very well be in for a new normal as travel is concerned.
Whether you’re looking into planning for post-pandemic travel locally, nationally, or abroad, here’s what to expect.
Travelers Will Need to be Flexible
While much of the United States has opened completely or at least has lifted many travel mandates and requirements, travelers should be prepared to be flexible both with their accommodations as well as travel to and from their destinations of choice. If you’re planning on hopping on a plane for the first time in a while, expect there to be some changes: masks may be required, airlines are still working up to 100% operations, and things may just take longer than they have in the past.
That said, make sure you can adapt to any curveballs your travel plans may throw at you. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance even if you’re planning on traveling within the United States. Travel insurance is relatively inexpensive and can compensate you if you are forced to change plans or have to cancel altogether. Finally, look for bookings with free cancellations or free changes just in case you need to alter your plans.
Enlist the Help of a Professional
Traveling domestically likely won’t require you to enlist the help of a professional travel agent, but if you’re looking at any sort of extended stay or to travel abroad, it’s a good idea to book through a travel agent and get their help. Unlike the United States, if you travel abroad, you may be required to be vaccinated for Covid-19, provide proof of that vaccination, or otherwise take preventative measures upon arrival on foreign soil (i.e. quarantining).
It’s important to know what you need to do before you book your trip. Otherwise, you may be spending your international vacation in a hotel room instead of seeing the lovely sights and eating delicious food. We enjoy a great deal of “freedoms” as Americans when it comes to choosing to be vaccinated or not and showing proof of that or not; however, foreign countries are much more strict and may require more than word of mouth.
Consider a “Credit Card Trip” to Start
If you’re just getting back into the swing of traveling, then it may be best to plan a credit card trip. In other words, plan a trip where you take little more than some clothes and a credit card and see where the wind takes you, but stay local if at all possible.
Traveling locally, say within 100 miles of your home, will eliminate plenty of hassles associated with Covid-related travel to other states or beyond and may allow you to see parts of your local area that you’ve never seen before or never experienced at all! Additionally, traveling by credit card gives you the flexibility to come and go as you please and not be tied down to any single destination.
Perhaps, though, all of this time at home over the past year-plus has you thinking differently about traveling. Maybe you’re one of those who has found a happy place in staying home. If that’s the case, and you’re possibly thinking about upgrading to a larger home, then get in touch with Tidewater Mortgage Services, Inc. to get pre-qualified!
